Beyond HRV. Extending the range of autonomic measures associated with heart rate variability – the effects of transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEAS)

Abstract

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is useful in acupuncture research as a measure of autonomic response. However, although it accurately reflects parasympathetic activity, there is less agreement on whether and how HRV can assess sympathetic activity. This study explores some potential autonomic measures beyond HRV that may do so, and investigates the effects of different frequencies and amplitudes of transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEAS) on these measures.